A boa is a fashion accessory that is usually worn wrapped around the neck like a scarf. It can be made of fur, but it is usually made instead from various types of feathers.

Social clubs such as the Red Hat Society, or those who are involved with historic re-enactment societies wear boas at meetings.

They are often worn as a costume accessory for parties around holiday seasons such as Halloween or Mardi Gras.

Boas may be worn for erotic seduction purposes, and are at times considered fetish wear. Nude performers may use boas to cover themselves while teasing their audience.

Not to be confused with:

• scarf
• stole